How to Make a Positive Lasting Impression

Leadership

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In the past I have discussed how important it is to make a positive first impression. While making a good first impression is critical, it is crucial that you continue to have a positive impression on everyone you interact with. Your clients, employer and employees will appreciate your pleasant and positive demeanor the first time they meet you, but it should not stop there. It is essential that they continue to trust and respect you. When someone thinks about you, what characteristics do you want them to recall? Here are a few tips to help you leave a remarkable, ever-lasting impression.

Smile

A smile is a universally understood gesture that can truly make a big difference when communicating with people. Dale Carnegie, the author of “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” believed that smiling makes people more enjoyable to work with because, “When we smile, we are letting people know we are happy to be with them, happy to meet them, and happy to be interacting with them.” Always have a smile on your face when you first meet someone. Sincere smiles make you look confident and approachable. They can be contagious, make other people feel at ease, and help you back up your feelings with genuineness. A simple smile goes a long way.

Listen More

We all know how frustrating it can be when someone doesn’t listen, but we often don’t realize when we are guilty of being bad listeners ourselves. Listening is one of the most important communication skills because it helps you learn how a person feels. It also shows that you are engaged and care about what the person is saying. "Listening's power, like that of smiling, is strong. When you listen well you not only make an instant impression, you also build a solid bridge for lasting connections. Who can resist being around a person who suspends his thoughts in order to value yours?" asks Carnegie.

Make Eye Contact

It has long been said that the eyes are the window to the soul. It is for that very reason eye contact is important. Eye contact shows respect, confidence and understanding. Maintaining comfortable eye contact creates a unique connection between people. Be remembered for your confidence and not your nervousness by keeping your eyes focused on the person with whom you are conversing.

Show Genuine Interest

In today’s society, people are busier and busier every day, industries are more competitive, technology is more advanced and often more distracting, and people are taking less time to genuinely take interest in others. With that said, those that become genuinely interested in others will be remembered for their positive actions. People will be grateful that someone took the time to learn about their passions and concerns, and they will return the favor.

Make more than just a positive impression in the moment; make an unforgettable positive impression that will stand out in the minds of others for forever. What tips and strategies do you have for making a lasting positive impression? Please share your thoughts, comments and tips below!